The characters combine literally and powerfully: “To put forth (出) schemes (谋) and draw up (划) strategies (策).” Each character reinforces the idea of thoughtful, intelligent planning.
The idiom 出谋划策 evokes the image of the classic wise advisor (军师, jūnshī) in Chinese history and literature, a figure of immense cultural importance. The most famous example is Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮) from the Three Kingdoms period, a brilliant strategist who served the warlord Liu Bei. He was the quintessential man who would 出谋划策, devising legendary strategies that won battles from behind the scenes. This cultural archetype highlights a deep-seated value in Chinese society: respect for intellect, strategic thinking, and the wisdom of counsel. A leader's strength is measured not just by their own power, but by the quality of the advisors they attract. A Western comparison might be a “strategic consultant,” a “consigliere,” or “the brains of the operation.” However, “consigliere” can have negative, mafia-related connotations, which 出谋划策 does not. It is almost always a term of praise. It's less about simply “giving advice” and more about being a dedicated partner in planning and achieving a complex goal, much like a trusted advisor to a king or a CEO.
While it has classical roots, 出谋划策 is very much alive in modern Chinese. It adds a layer of sophistication to the conversation.